SLAM DUNK

Where to see the Knicks if you dont want to go to Jersey

This is the first meeting of the season of these mediocre Atlantic Division rivals, the New York Knicks at the New Jersey Nets. (Both should be at least five or six games behind the Boston Celtics by the time you read this.) If youre willing to brave the swamps of New Jersey, you might just be able to get a ticketas we go to press, Ticketmaster is still offering $40 seats online, but you might have to bring an oxygen mask. If you opt for the sports-bar experience, let us suggest Play by Play at the Garden, with lots of space and good beer and food, though they dont take reservations. Weve had good times at Twelve (206 East 34th Street), with 22 42-inch flat-screens and speakers at each table. (We recommend their cornmeal-crusted chicken tenders.) Reservations can be made online at bar12.com. If you live near the Village and want more intimate surroundings, try Professor Thoms (219 Second Avenue), the personal favorite of The Village Voice editor in chief.
Wed., Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m., 2008